Ferdinand von Mueller

1

Sir Henry Barkly was a member of the Council of the Royal Geographical Society and active in plans for Antarctic exploration.

11/3/87

I am very anxious, dear Sir Henry, that a captive balloon should be used in any preliminary expedition (from any Victorian support) to the antarctics.

2

Filed with this letter is a cutting from the [Melbourne] Daily telegraph, 22 February 1887, about the possibility of using manned balloons for reconnoitering during the proposed Antarctic expedition. M had advocated the use of balloons since at least his Presidential Address to the inaugural meeting of the Geographical Society of Australasia (Victorian Branch) in 1884 (B84.04.03, p. 13, col. g).

May I beg of you, when you meet members of the antarctic Committee, to advocate this?

The Council of the Vict. branch of the R.G.S. of Austral is very anxious to learn, when Rev Mr. Chalmers will be out, who is now on leave in London, and could be seen at the London Missionaries Soc. Office. If the Rev Gentleman would come on his return via Melbourne, we could discuss the details best personally here.

3

MS annotation: Leaves on 15th June & will be at Melbourne by end of July well worth while writing by [Mrs Henty of Melbourne] will contact by next mail when at leisure. […] 21/4/87.

I am sure, dear Sir Henry, you will be interested in these efforts from Victoria (and we will recognize your kind help on the Papuan map).

We are afraid, that Mr Chalmers return will be so much delayed, as to cause the loss of the cool and less wet season. That he would get permission for this exploit from the Council of the missionaries Soc. does not admit of doubt, as he would have the work of the mission simultaneously among the hill tribes; and the general prosperity of New Guinea. — To spin our £2000 out as far as possible, and to effect a "flying expedition," we do not wish Mr Chalmers to combine with any other explorer.